Alexandria Maniak (they/she) has always been at the heart of Shortly, but it’s a project that came together in an instant. Armed with their own songs and a ringing set of chords, they introduced themselves in a Michigan backyard with the name they’ve repeated while sharing the stage with everyone from Aaron West and the Roaring Twenties to Phoebe Bridgers. Audiences and listeners alike dove headfirst into 2018’s Richmond EP, a cavernous and penitent lens into Maniak’s wars between self and faith, humanity and higher power.
Shortly has now arrived with their debut album, Dancer, which takes the rejection and confusion of previous material and transforms it into something freeing and exultant, reconciling Maniak’s past and present with one swift maneuver.
Surprise
Shortly Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I love you so, please don't let me go And I know you'll feel troubled When we say our goodbyes Just don't let me go
Don't ruin my surprise
The lyrics of Shortly's song "Surprise" delve into a complex dynamic between two individuals. The singer establishes a stark contrast between their lives, with one living in the shadows and the other constantly on the road. Despite the physical separation, there is a deep love and attachment that the singer expresses. They plead for the other person not to let them go, acknowledging that there may be moments of trouble when they have to part ways temporarily. The line "Don't ruin my surprise" adds an intriguing layer to the lyrics, suggesting that there might be something unexpected or special planned, and the singer hopes that the recipient holds on and embraces the surprise with an open heart.
This song captures the bittersweet emotions that often accompany long-distance relationships or relationships where circumstances keep two people apart. It beautifully conveys the longing, fear, and vulnerability that arise in such situations. The lyrics speak to the universal desire to hold onto love and connection, even in challenging circumstances.
Line by Line Meaning
Even though you prefer to stay hidden and I'm always traveling
I have strong feelings for you, so please don't end our relationship
I understand that you will be upset when we part ways
But please don't give up on our love
Don't spoil the surprise I have planned for you
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Alexandria Maniak, Austin Stawowczyk, Kris Herrmann
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind